If the deal is approved by the Competition & Markets Authority and McColl's shareholders, the stores will change hands in November.

Steve Murrells, CEO of Co-op Food, said: "The Co-op Food business continues to move forward with a clear momentum and purpose to deliver a compelling and convenient shopping experience for our millions of customers and members.

"Today's announcement is completely in line with our strategy, as these stores did not allow us to provide a sufficiently compelling own-brand offer for our members going forwards.

"The proceeds will be re-invested to drive sustainable growth for our members and I'm delighted that all 3,808 colleagues will transfer to McColl's on the same terms and conditions."